President Michael D Higgins has called for a rare Council of State meeting to assess the constitutionality of the controversial Defence (Amendment) Bill 2024. The bill has sparked criticism for potentially restricting Defense Forces personnel from engaging in political discourse.
The meeting, scheduled for Monday at Áras An Uachtaráin, will be only the fourth of its kind in the last decade. Opposition members like Independent TD Cathal Berry and Independent Senator Michael McDowell have condemned the bill as draconian.
The specific concerns revolve around Section 11 of the Bill, which prohibits defense personnel from commenting on political issues, Government policy, participating in public protests, or attending political party meetings without prior authorization.
The Council of State will evaluate whether these restrictions infringe upon individuals’ right to free speech and potentially violate the constitution. If deemed necessary, the Supreme Court will make the final decision on the bill’s constitutionality.